During the 2024–2025 biennium, PAHO played a key role in transforming the care model of the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS, Spanish acronym) through the formulation and initial implementation of the Family and Community Health Strategy. Through sustained, sequential, and territorially focused technical cooperation, PAHO supported the design of a model of care based on primary health care (PHC) and integrated health services delivery networks, the definition of a service delivery portfolio oriented to the needs of individuals and families, and the strengthening of health workforce capacities through specialized training processes. In addition, PAHO supported the initial rollout of the strategy in the department of Escuintla, laying the groundwork for its progressive scale-up.

This achievement directly contributes to improving access to comprehensive, quality services for the estimated 1.5 million people affiliated to the IGSS, and to strengthening the resolutive capacity of the first level of care. The participation of several key partners and the incorporation of international best practices from Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Italy, and Mexico were highlighted.
By institutionalizing a people-, family-, and community-centered model of care, this strategy represents an innovative experience with potential for scalability to other departments. The country is moving toward greater health and well-being for all, continuity of care, and efficiency of the social security system, with expected effects on reduced avoidable morbidity and improved health outcomes in the medium and long term.

Photo caption: Fourteen resident doctors complete training in the Family and Community Health Strategy
Credit: Guatemalan Social Security Institute